Input sought from clients, families, public for vocational rehabilitation plan

Release Date: April 7, 2014
Contact: news@dhhs.nc.gov
919-855-4840

Raleigh, N.C. - The N.C. Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VR), which provides counseling, training, education, transportation, job placement and other support services to people with physical, psychiatric and intellectual disabilities, is seeking public input through a series of meetings to help update the state plan for delivery of its services. The plan, updated annually, will become effective Oct. 1.

The public meetings are scheduled for 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the following locations on the dates indicated:

In addition to the general public, those who may find the meetings of interest are people who receive VR services and their families, those who work in human services programs, advocates for people with disabilities and potential employers of people with disabilities.

Discussion topics may include, but are not limited to:

Strategies to improve outreach to underserved populations and disability groups

Priorities that individuals with disabilities would like the public VR program to address

Elimination of barriers to participation by individuals with disabilities in the VR program and the state's supported-employment program

Responsiveness of VR services to its consumers

Improvement of VR services for high-school students with disabilities

Attendees may register to speak upon arrival at the meetings or in advance by calling Alma Atkinson at (919) 855-3530. Speakers are encouraged to bring a written copy of their comments. People who are unable to attend one of the meetings may provide input by sending written comments by May 25 to:

The scheduled meeting locations are accessible to people with disabilities. Sign-language interpreters will be present. If you plan to attend and need other accommodations, please contact Ms. Atkinson at (919)855-3530 by April 24. For additional information, contact Jeff Stevens at (919)855-3531 or e-mail jeff.stevens@dhhs.nc.gov.